Based on the heavy rainfall and continued run off into the rivers, the water levels in all rivers remain quite high. Of particular concern at this moment is the Caroni River whose water levels are still rather high. In light of this, the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Services has advised that residents who live in the areas that lie in the Caroni River Basin (such as St Helena, Kelly Village, Frederick Settlement, La Paille and Las Lomas) must remain vigilant and cautious at this time.

To treat with the possibility of riverine flooding, the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management has activated and furnished two relief shelters with the necessary bedding, food and water to cater for the needs of persons who may be affected by any over spilling of the Caroni River. These shelters are the Eastern Regional Sporting Complex (Tacarigua) and the Tunapuna Government Secondary School.

If relocation of persons is necessary, PTSC buses will be waiting at the venues listed hereunder for transfer to the shelters:-

• St. Helena Junction
• Chin Chin Junction
• Las Lomas RC School
• Frederick Settlement Sporting Facility

Consequently, affected persons are asked to walk with:-

• Complete change of clothes
• Extra pair of shoes
• Extra socks
• Extra underwear
• Toothbrush, deodorant, towel and bath soaps
• Important documents such as passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate, driver’s licence, wills and deeds in a sealed plastic bag
• Personal medication

The ODPM reminds citizens that the emergency relief shelters will only provide the following:

• Food, water and bedding (cots, mattresses and blankets)

Some additional safety tips are:-

• Stay calm but remain vigilant and cautious at this time
• Secure valuables and all important documents in waterproof containers or bags
• Elevate all appliances and valuable items
• Turn off all utilities such as electricity, gas and water at the main switches. Do not touch electrical equipment
• Secure all pets and livestock
• Do not walk / drive through flood waters unless absolutely necessary
• Park vehicles in places that will not become easily inundated
• Be aware of possible landslides and landslips.

The ODPM, as the coordinator and manager of emergencies has alerted the first responder agencies (Municipal Corporations, the TT Fire Service and TT Defence Force) to render continued assistance as required. Further information will be communicated as necessary.

Please note that Trinidad and Tobago is NOT under any Tropical Storm threat, Watch or Warning.

Contact:
Public Information Specialist
1 868 640 1285 /486 8251/ publicinformation@odpm.gov.tt